Masahiro Tanaka Throws; Yankees Starter Says He Was Pain-Free

New York Yankees righthander Masahiro Tanaka said he experienced no pain after playing catch Monday for the first time since he partially tore an elbow ligament in early July.

"Good," Tanaka said in English, bypassing his interpretor, upon the initial question asking how he felt.

Tanaka had a platelet-rich plasma injection three weeks ago.

The 25-year-old was examined by three doctors, who agreed that the tear was small enough to avoid Tommy John surgery.

Tanaka, who is out for the season, went 12-3 with a 2.51 ERA and a 1.01 WHIP in 18 starts over 129 1/3 innings.

Also Monday, the Yankees placed right-handed pitcher David Phelps on the 15-day disabled list with right elbow inflammation. Phelps was removed from Sunday's start against the Boston Red Sox after just two innings amid discomfort in his right elbow.

The Yankees recalled right-handed reliever Matt Daley from Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to take Phelps' roster spot.